The Golgi tendon reflexis activated by resisted contraction and the muscles relax by neurophysiological reflex.

I first palpate the hypertonic muscle while testing the range of movement of the restricted joint. Then I usually ask the patient to move the relevant part of the joint towards the position of ease while I am providing isometric counterforce. This is held for 3 to 5 seconds. After complete relaxation, I move the joint further into a new barrier and I repeat the whole procedure as often as is necessary until the physiologic limits are restored.